When planning out your kitchen design there are lots of things to think about. The first things that come to mind are the budget, style, layout, and functionality. The budget is probably the most important item and is typically set from the start. The style is also generally decided at the start. You’ll most likely know if you’re leaning modern, traditional, or somewhere in between. If not, check out the linked blogs! But what about the layout and functionality? These aspects (if designed in a meaningful way) are what help make a kitchen a good kitchen. So, let’s take a look!

Kitchen Design and Layout

The layout of a kitchen is super important. To define the shape of the space you’ll first start with the wall space and how it is shaped. You’ll then define where you’re plumbing and ventilation will go. Sometimes these are fixed areas and other times these are flexible (as in, you’re planning on relocating these). You’ll then decide if an island is appropriate, or possibly even a peninsula is good for the space. A good rule of thumb to remember is that base cabinets are usually 24″ deep and work aisles should at minimum be 42″. So using those measurements is a good way to plan the layout and will help you determine if an island is feasible.

Design and Functionality

Go into designing a kitchen using your own experience with being in a kitchen. Open your cabinets, shut your drawers, dig out your shelves and see what you like and don’t like about your current space. Personally, we prefer drawers over cabinets with shelves. Drawers are like organized layers within your cabinets (and could even save your back not having to dig out the item you need at the very back of your cabinet!). Find out where you need your cutlery and determine the interior features you’ll want the most. Plus, keep in mind the subtle additions to your kitchen such as soft-close doors and drawers.

Want to learn more? Check out this great blog about why a kitchen remodel takes so long!